Detroit Lions' Nick Fairley seeks to avoid trial on DUI charges

MOBILE, Ala. -- An attorney for Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley asked a judge Wednesday to approve a pre-trial diversion program instead of putting the player on trial facing charges of drunken-driving and fleeing police.

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Fairley was charged with driving under the influence and attempting to elude police following a May 27 arrest. His Mobile County District Court trial was set to start Wednesday morning, but attorney Sid Harrell instead filed paperwork requesting Fairley attend an anti-DUI course after stipulating to a first-time DUI.

Fairley faces a six-month suspended jail term, a year on probation and a $600 fine if his request to attend the pre-trial diversion program is denied. Prosecutors could argue against the request, but Harrell said such programs are common for first-offenders.

"He will have to live up to that agreement and attend the program," Harrell said. He said a judge will have to review the request and hold a hearing.

Fairley, who was not in court, practiced with the Lions in Allen Park, Mich., on Wednesday morning. He declined comment about the case.

Even if the case is delayed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has made it clear he can discipline Fairley for his pattern of behavior before he has due process in court. Fairley insisted he isn't anxious about receiving a letter from the league informing him of a suspension that he's expected to get at some point.

Fairley was charged with driving under the influence and attempting to elude police following a May 27 arrest. His Mobile County District Court trial was set to start Wednesday morning, but attorney Sid Harrell instead filed paperwork requesting Fairley attend an anti-DUI course after stipulating to a first-time DUI.

Fairley faces a six-month suspended jail term, a year on probation and a $600 fine if his request to attend the pre-trial diversion program is denied. Prosecutors could argue against the request, but Harrell said such programs are common for first-offenders.

Fairley and the Lions (1-2) are preparing for a game against the Minnesota Vikings (2-1) on Sunday. He was a 2011 first-round pick after helping lead Auburn to a national title. He was arrested after a state trooper said he was traveling at 100 mph in his Cadillac Escalade and initially didn't pull over. He also faces a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge Nov. 27 in his hometown of Mobile.

Harrell said expected the marijuana charge to be dropped once Fairley completes the diversion program.